From the well-traveled gourmet to the kitchen-bound home cook, there’s nothing more exciting than encountering a new recipe that beckons the taste buds.
We present to you an extraordinary combination of sweet, sour, and hearty flavors: Veal Stewed with Plums. This dish brings together the tenderness of veal and the tart sweetness of plums in an unforgettable gastronomical experience.
Ingredients
To make veal stewed with plums, you will need the following ingredients:
2 pounds veal, cut into cubes
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup red wine
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
8 plums, pitted and halved
Instructions
Now, let’s dive into the preparation of this delectable veal stewed with plums:
Step 1
Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the veal cubes and cook until browned on all sides. This step helps seal in the juices and adds flavor to the dish.
Step 2
Remove the veal from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they turn golden and fragrant.
Step 3
Return the veal to the skillet, and sprinkle the flour over the meat. Stir well to coat the veal evenly with the flour.
Step 4
In a separate bowl, mix together the chicken or vegetable broth, red wine, tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture into the skillet, covering the veal completely.
Step 5
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the stew simmer for about 1 hour or until the veal becomes tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6
After an hour, add the halved plums to the skillet, gently nestling them among the veal cubes. Continue simmering for an additional 15 minutes, or until the plums soften slightly.
Step 7
Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
Step 8
Once the veal is tender and the plums have released their sweet juices, remove the skillet from the heat. Allow the stew to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Benefits of This Recipe
When it comes to veal stewed with plums, not only is it a delicious and satisfying meal, but it also offers several nutritional benefits. Let’s explore the various nutrients you can find in this flavorful dish:
Protein
Veal is a fantastic source of high-quality protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting a healthy immune system, and providing energy. By including veal in this recipe, you’re adding a significant amount of protein to your meal.
Vitamins and Minerals
Veal is rich in essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall health. It contains B vitamins such as vitamin B12, which supports brain function and helps maintain healthy blood cells. Additionally, veal provides essential minerals like iron, zinc, and phosphorus, which are crucial for various bodily functions, including oxygen transport, immune support, and bone health.
Plums
Plums are not only a delightful addition to this dish but also bring their own nutritional benefits. Plums are also packed with antioxidants, such as vitamin C and phytonutrients, which help protect the body against harmful free radicals and promote overall well-being.
Accompaniments
Veal stewed with plums pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions to complement the flavors of this dish:
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a classic and comforting accompaniment to the rich and flavorful veal stew.
Steamed Vegetables: Light and vibrant steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or carrots, add a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew.
Rice: A serving of fluffy rice, like the easy coconut rice recipe from Mahatma Rice, brings a touch of exotic flavor to the meal. You can find the recipe at: mahatmarice.com/recipes/easy-coconut-rice/ This fragrant coconut rice is a fantastic complement to the savory veal and sweet plums, creating a delightful fusion of tastes.
Crusty Bread: A crusty baguette or a slice of warm, freshly baked bread is perfect for mopping up the delicious stew juices.
Variations of This Recipe
Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the stew. This will give it a subtle kick and a touch of spiciness that pairs well with the sweet plums.
Vegetarian/Vegan Option: If you prefer a plant-based version, you can substitute the veal with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or tofu. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the vegetables are cooked to perfection.
Gluten-Free Option: If you follow a gluten-free diet, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative such as cornstarch or rice flour. This will thicken the stew without compromising its texture.
Proper Storage
If you have leftovers or want to prepare the veal stewed with plums in advance, proper storage is essential to maintain its flavor and freshness. Follow these guidelines:
Refrigeration: Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: Veal stewed with plums can be frozen for future enjoyment. Place the cooled stew in freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw the stew overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Veal stewed with plums is a remarkable dish that combines tender meat with the natural sweetness of plums. With its rich flavors and succulent textures, this recipe is sure to please your palate and impress your guests.
Remember to follow the secret preparation tips to elevate the flavors and consider pairing it with delicious sides like fluffy coconut rice from Mahatma Rice. Enjoy the experience of cooking this exquisite dish and savor each bite.
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